Appeal after Irish dad dies in UK crash

Father-of-two Aidan Walsh, who was originally from Dublin died on Monday after a pile-up involving his van and two lorries.

The family of a former Ireland table tennis international killed in a motorway crash in the UK has urged drivers to come forward to help the police inquiry.

Father-of-two Aidan Walsh,

who was originally from Dublin but lived in Warwickshire, died on Monday after a pile-up involving his van and two lorries on the M5 near Droitwich Spa, Worcestershire.

In a statement released through West Mercia Police, the 52-year-old's family said: "Although in such horrifying circumstances, it's difficult to remember Aidan in any way other than a devoted husband and loving father.

"He was an immensely proud father to his two boys, Shay and Sean, and a dependable and much-loved son, brother and uncle.

"He came to England in the early 1990s, leaving his beloved Dublin and a successful international table tennis career representing Ireland to help bring up his nieces and nephews following the also untimely death of their father.

"This summed up Aidan's selfless attitude and strong moral character. The family have truly lost their rock.

"We would like to take this opportunity to thank people for the many wonderful messages we have received from our friends.

Sadness

"We would also like to take this opportunity to urge anyone who can help police with their inquiries to come forward."

Table Tennis Ireland issued a statement expressing its sadness at the death of Mr Walsh, who represented Ireland in a number of international events at both junior and senior levels.

"Aidan was one of the most pleasant persons in our sport both on and off the table," said the governing body's president, Ken Strong.